Let’s Dive into TruGlo Tru-Bead Universal Turkey Sights
The TruGlo Tru-Bead Universal Turkey Sights are a shotgun sight system designed to enhance visibility and accuracy, specifically for turkey hunting. Manufactured by TruGlo, these sights replace the standard bead sight and offer full windage and elevation adjustability, a feature often lacking in basic shotgun setups.
I’ve been turkey hunting for years, and one of my biggest frustrations has always been the inadequacy of standard bead sights in low-light conditions. Too many times, I’ve missed opportunities because I couldn’t clearly see the bead against a dark background. I needed a sight system that would provide better visibility and allow for precise adjustments.
My initial impression upon unboxing the TruGlo Tru-Bead Universal Turkey Sights was positive. The sights felt solid, and the included hardware suggested a universal fit. The fiber optic elements were noticeably brighter than the standard bead sight on my Remington 870.
I considered other options like ghost ring sights and red dot optics, but I wanted something simple, low-profile, and easy to install. Ultimately, I chose the TruGlo Tru-Bead Universal Turkey Sights for their straightforward design and promise of improved visibility. I was excited to see if they lived up to the hype and improved my success rate this upcoming season.
Real-World Testing: Putting TruGlo Tru-Bead Universal Turkey Sights to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the TruGlo Tru-Bead Universal Turkey Sights at my local shooting range, focusing on pattern density at different distances. I simulated hunting conditions by shooting from a seated position and using various turkey chokes. The enhanced visibility was immediately apparent, even under bright sunlight.
The sights performed well in dry conditions. I also tested them in light rain, and the fiber optics remained clearly visible, providing a distinct advantage over my old bead sight. Adjusting the windage and elevation was simple using the included tools, allowing me to fine-tune my point of impact. After the first use, I didn’t notice any significant issues, but I was curious about how well the universal mounting system would hold up after prolonged use and recoil.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the TruGlo Tru-Bead Universal Turkey Sights during practice sessions and two actual turkey hunts, I can confidently say they’ve significantly improved my aiming. The sights have held up remarkably well, with no loosening or shifting of the mounting hardware. I experienced no issues with the fiber optics dimming or becoming damaged.
After cleaning my shotgun after each use, I’ve wiped down the TruGlo sights with a soft cloth to remove any residue or debris. The sights show no signs of wear and tear, and the fiber optics are as bright as when I first installed them. Compared to my previous experiences with standard bead sights, the TruGlo Tru-Bead Universal Turkey Sights offer a vastly superior aiming experience, especially in low-light conditions.
Breaking Down the Features of TruGlo Tru-Bead Universal Turkey Sights
Specifications
The TruGlo Tru-Bead Universal Turkey Sights come in two primary models: the TG950 and the TG950X. The TG950 features a red fiber optic front sight and a green fiber optic rear sight, while the TG950X offers a ghost ring sight kit. Both models utilize a universal mounting system designed to fit virtually any shotgun with a ventilated rib.
The sights are CNC machined from steel and aluminum, offering a robust construction. The front sight diameter is 0.060″, and the rear diameter is 0.035″ for the TG950 model. The fiber optic material enhances visibility in various lighting conditions. These specifications matter because they directly impact the sight’s durability, visibility, and ease of installation.
Performance & Functionality
The TruGlo Tru-Bead Universal Turkey Sights excel at providing enhanced visibility and accuracy compared to standard bead sights. The adjustable windage and elevation allow for precise zeroing, ensuring that the point of impact matches the point of aim. These sights are reliable and easy to use, even for novice shotgun users.
While the universal mounting system is generally effective, it may require some adjustments or modifications to fit certain shotgun models perfectly. The fiber optic elements are highly visible in low-light conditions, but they can be slightly washed out in direct sunlight. Overall, the TruGlo Tru-Bead Universal Turkey Sights meet and exceed my expectations for a simple, effective shotgun sight system.
Design & Ergonomics
The TruGlo Tru-Bead Universal Turkey Sights are designed to be low-profile and unobtrusive. The sights are constructed from durable materials, yet they remain relatively lightweight, not adding noticeable bulk to the shotgun. The fiber optic elements are bright and easy to see, providing a clear aiming point.
The sights are user-friendly, and installation is straightforward with the included hardware. The windage and elevation adjustments are easy to make with a small screwdriver. While there’s a slight learning curve associated with adjusting the sights for the first time, the process is intuitive and quickly mastered.
Durability & Maintenance
The TruGlo Tru-Bead Universal Turkey Sights are built to last, with a combination of steel and aluminum construction. The fiber optic elements are protected within the sight housings, minimizing the risk of damage. With proper care and maintenance, these sights should provide years of reliable service.
Cleaning the TruGlo Tru-Bead Universal Turkey Sights is simple. Regular cleaning is vital to maintain optimal performance. I recommend using a soft cloth and a mild cleaning solution to remove any dirt, debris, or residue.
Accessories and Customization Options
The TruGlo Tru-Bead Universal Turkey Sights come with various screws and clamps to accommodate different ventilated rib sizes. There aren’t many customization options directly associated with the sights themselves, but they are compatible with various shotgun accessories. These include aftermarket chokes, slings, and shell carriers.
The sights are designed to be a standalone aiming solution, so there aren’t any specific accessories required for their operation. However, some users may choose to add a cheek riser to their shotgun stock to improve their sight picture. The TruGlo Tru-Bead Universal Turkey Sights are a simple yet effective upgrade that works well with a wide range of shotgun configurations.
Pros and Cons of TruGlo Tru-Bead Universal Turkey Sights
Pros
- Easy Installation: The universal mounting system makes installation straightforward on most shotguns with ventilated ribs. Installation is quick and easy, saving time and effort.
- Enhanced Visibility: The fiber optic elements provide significantly better visibility than standard bead sights, especially in low-light conditions. The bright fiber optics make aiming easier and more accurate.
- Adjustable Windage & Elevation: Full windage and elevation adjustability allows for precise zeroing, ensuring accurate shot placement. This adjustability allows users to fine-tune their aim.
- Durable Construction: CNC machined from steel and aluminum, the sights are built to withstand recoil and harsh hunting conditions. The robust construction ensures long-lasting reliability.
- Affordable Upgrade: Compared to other shotgun sight systems, the TruGlo Tru-Bead Universal Turkey Sights offer excellent value for the money. The sights offer a significant performance improvement at a reasonable price.
Cons
- Universal Fit Limitations: The universal mounting system may require some adjustments or modifications to fit certain shotgun models perfectly. Some fitting may be required for certain models.
- Fiber Optic Washout: The fiber optic elements can be slightly washed out in direct sunlight, reducing visibility in very bright conditions. Direct sunlight can affect brightness.
Who Should Buy TruGlo Tru-Bead Universal Turkey Sights?
The TruGlo Tru-Bead Universal Turkey Sights are perfect for turkey hunters who want to improve their accuracy and visibility without investing in expensive optics. They are also suitable for casual shotgun shooters who want a simple and effective upgrade to their existing sights. New hunters will also appreciate the ease of installation and enhanced aiming.
Hunters who require extreme precision at long ranges or those who frequently hunt in very bright sunlight may prefer a different sighting system, such as a red dot optic. Anyone who dislikes modifying their firearms or who has a shotgun without a ventilated rib may also want to consider other options. A gunsmith may be needed for some configurations.
A quality gun cleaning kit is a must-have accessory to keep the TruGlo Tru-Bead Universal Turkey Sights and your shotgun in top condition. Additionally, a set of gunsmithing tools can be helpful for fine-tuning the fit and making any necessary adjustments during installation. A cheek riser may also be useful for some users to achieve a better sight picture.
Conclusion on TruGlo Tru-Bead Universal Turkey Sights
Overall, the TruGlo Tru-Bead Universal Turkey Sights are an excellent upgrade for any shotgun used for turkey hunting or general shooting. The sights offer enhanced visibility, adjustability, and durability at an affordable price. Installation is easy, and the improved accuracy is well worth the investment.
The price of $42.89 is justified by the significant improvement in aiming performance and the overall quality of the product. I would definitely recommend the TruGlo Tru-Bead Universal Turkey Sights to anyone looking to upgrade their shotgun sights without breaking the bank. If you’re tired of struggling with standard bead sights, give these a try – you won’t be disappointed!